The Downtown Vancouver BIA (DVBIA) has released a five-year plan to transform more alleys and laneways in the city's core into vibrant public spaces.
In Vancouver's core, laneways make up 30 per cent of the public space; if they could be turned into active public spaces it could change the "urban realm," according to the BIA.
“Melbourne, Tokyo, and other cities around the world have made this leap," says Kim Winston of Hcma, the firm that worked with Downtown Vancouver on the plan. "We're thrilled to be working with Downtown Van to transform and activate our own network of alleys with a distinctive Vancouver twist.”
Currently, three Downtown Vancouver alleys have been transformed: Alley Oop (also known as the Pink Alley where Korean pop act Twice shot a music video), Snékwem Lane, and Ackery’s Alley.
In the strategy booklet, titled "Vancouver's Awesome Alleys," it's noted the strategy will attempt to deliver on Mayor Ken Sim's goal to give Vancouver a "renewed sense of swagger and optimism."
"Vancouver’s awesome alleys are spaces of wonder and play. They host vibrant, immersive experiences that activate the city in unexpected ways, draw more people downtown, and further enhance Vancouver’s reputation as one of the world’s best cities," reads the strategy's vision statement.
The strategy will focus on laneways along Granville and Hornby streets, according to a press release, along with connecting areas like the waterfront to areas like Robson Square and the Vancouver Art Gallery.
The multi-pronged strategy aims to create attractive alleys that also have an interactive element to them and can be used as routes for pedestrians and as social hubs. Through increased use, the DVBIA hopes to create an economic boost for local businesses.
The strategy aims to achieve this through two ways: transformations (physical changes including adding colour, lighting and other features) and activations (events and activities).
Transformations are planned out in two phases, with a new one finished by the end of the first quarter of each year from 2025 to 2027. Activations will be planned at Alley Oop and Snékwem Lane at first.
"By creating new Awesome Alleys near the existing Alley Oop and Snékwem Lane, Downtown Van aims to establish a network of alleys that is a destination for both residents and visitors, offering additional incentives to visit the downtown core," states the BIA in the release.
The public is being invited to two engagement events on the strategy; both will be located in the alley off Granville between Dunsmuir and Pender streets. The first is Wednesday, July 24, from 4 to 6 p.m. The second is Saturday, July 27, from 1 to 3 p.m.
